- Joined
- Sep 4, 2010
- Messages
- 246
I hate to ask these questions because I am sure you all get them A LOT. But I've read the threads and numerous websites and took in so much info some of it conflicting that I am slightly confused.
So my Sheldon should be here soon. He isn't a tiny hatchling but he isn't near full grown either. I would say maybe 5 or 6 inches. I live in the North East and he will be indoors.
If I did a natural habitat with dirt and cypress how often would his home need to be cleaned? Do I change the dirt too or just the cypress? That might be a silly question but I really want to do this right. Would it be ideal to put rocks down as a first layer under the dirt? Or should I skip the dirt route and go for strictly Cypress and if I did this, how often should I change it?
About feeding. Some sites say no to tomatoes some say they're ok occasionally. I also saw a site say no bananas. Should I skip both of these? Are pellets alone fine for protein or should I cook him and egg too? I've also read you can cook them eggs.
I have a "Daylight Blue Reptile Bulb" 100 Watt. How often do I keep this on? If I take him outside with me sometimes should I skip putting the bulb on-on those days?
Lastly, for his plants. What are the best plants to have in his home? I've seen mention of Aloe Vera but is that safe for them?
Sorry so many questions. I've had many types of animals throughout my life and this is my first tortoise. I just REALLY want to do everything right. Thank you all so much in advance.
So my Sheldon should be here soon. He isn't a tiny hatchling but he isn't near full grown either. I would say maybe 5 or 6 inches. I live in the North East and he will be indoors.
If I did a natural habitat with dirt and cypress how often would his home need to be cleaned? Do I change the dirt too or just the cypress? That might be a silly question but I really want to do this right. Would it be ideal to put rocks down as a first layer under the dirt? Or should I skip the dirt route and go for strictly Cypress and if I did this, how often should I change it?
About feeding. Some sites say no to tomatoes some say they're ok occasionally. I also saw a site say no bananas. Should I skip both of these? Are pellets alone fine for protein or should I cook him and egg too? I've also read you can cook them eggs.
I have a "Daylight Blue Reptile Bulb" 100 Watt. How often do I keep this on? If I take him outside with me sometimes should I skip putting the bulb on-on those days?
Lastly, for his plants. What are the best plants to have in his home? I've seen mention of Aloe Vera but is that safe for them?
Sorry so many questions. I've had many types of animals throughout my life and this is my first tortoise. I just REALLY want to do everything right. Thank you all so much in advance.